Chinese 'space hearts' being built

Chinese scientists are using key technology used to create rockets to help develop artificial hearts, with the devices expected to enter clinical trials in a few years, reports Digital Paper.

The artificial hearts, known as "space hearts," have been co-produced by the Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology with the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, which has also created the servo system for China's aerospace sector.

The "space heart" includes a precisely-designed electric motor inside the pump. The techniques are similar to that used in the servo system for a rocket. Researchers say the system can operate for an extended period of time without doing major physical damage.

The "space heart" was tested in six sheep in 2017. All of them lived more than 100 days, with the longest living 139 days.